Best Dental Assistant Schools in St. Joseph, Missouri

Updated October 21, 2025

Table of Contents
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Dental assistant programs in St. Joseph, Missouri can get you career-ready in under two years. Focus on schools that blend classroom instruction, chairside labs, and clinical rotations so you graduate with the skills local dentists expect.

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Dental Assistant Training in St. Joseph

  • Look for CODA-accredited programs or state-approved dental assisting certificates.
  • Confirm the curriculum covers radiography, infection control, impressions, and chairside skills.
  • Ask about externships with practices in St. Joseph or nearby communities so you can log real patient hours.
  • Find out how the school prepares you for DANB exams and any state-specific credentials.

Local Dental Assistant Programs Within 100 Miles of St. Joseph:

School Location Distance
Highland Community College Highland, KS 24.9 miles
Pinnacle Career Institute Kansas City, MO 32.5 miles
Kansas City Kansas Community College Kansas City, KS 44.2 miles
Donnelly College Kansas City, KS 45.7 miles
Ea La Mar's Cosmetology & Barber College Kansas City, MO 48.2 miles
Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City Kansas City, MO 49.3 miles
Summit Salon Academy Kansas City Independence, MO 51.5 miles
Aviation Institute of Maintenance-Kansas City Kansas City, MO 52.0 miles
House of Heavilin Beauty College-Kansas City Kansas City, MO 52.6 miles
Mitsu Sato Hair Academy Overland Park, KS 55.5 miles

Certification and Licensing in Missouri

  • Review the latest rules from the state dental board for radiography permits and expanded duties.
  • Track your clinical competencies so they count toward on-the-job requirements and specialty certifications.
  • Keep CPR/BLS, OSHA, and HIPAA training current—most employers require up-to-date cards at hire.

Questions to Ask Schools

  • What percentage of students finish on time and pass certification exams?
  • How does the program support job placement with local dental offices?
  • Are there evening, weekend, or hybrid schedules for working students?
  • Which textbooks, uniforms, or lab fees are included in tuition—and what costs extra?

Next Steps

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